‘Orange and green’ in focus for final night of Gathering

Festival Director Dr David Hume, Donal McAnallen of the GAA, and David Scott of the Orange Order with some of those who attended the Orange and Green event at the Broadisland Gathering. Photo: John Fittis

Published:07:00Sunday 21 September 2014

Two of the most prominent cultural organisations from unionist and nationalist communities were in focus as this year’s Broadisland Gathering drew to a close.

The Orange Order and the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) were invited to attend the ‘Colours in Conflict’ discussion evening at Ballycarry Community Centre on Friday.

The final event on the festival programme, the talk has in the past been addressed by the late Lord Bannside and Baroness Paisley, by Senator Dr Martin McAleese and comedian Tim McGarry.

David Scott, Community Education Officer of the Orange Order and Donal McAnallen, his counterpart within the Ulster Council of the GAA, gave presentations on their respective organisations and fielded questions from the audience.

Festival Director Dr David Hume welcomed those present and said that both organisations were the major cultural players in their communities.

Questions included issues over symbolism, parades, marching bands and the role of the education system in promoting greater respect for different traditions.